Rat trauma :[?

Question

I really really scared my rat, because he got out and I have five cats and I had to scare him out from under the heater. I know it's mean, but if he was out of his cage without supervision he would die. He's a baby and he's very outgoing. I just feel really bad because he got skittish after two of his brothers were given away and then this happened. do you think he will forget? he has a good temperment. This happened to one of my mice and they were like scarred for life, but i think they already had a skittish temperment. no bs answers please

Answer 1

he should get over it like most animals do and if not at first eventually plus you did the right thing even know it made him scared

Answer 2

You did the right thing. Leaving him to run freely through your house could've ended up with him as a chew toy for one of your cats or even found days later lying in your pantry. What you did may sound mean, but you really had no choice; because he's a baby, his life was put at serious risk. He may be a little standoffish for a little while, but he should be fine. I wouldn't worry about him. Just be sure to give him extra hugs and treats!